Goldie Cheung confirms X Factor departure

Goldie Cheung has confirmed her departure from 'The X Factor', admitting homesickness is the reason why she has quit

Goldie Cheung has confirmed she has left 'The X Factor'.

The eccentric singer - who had made it through to the last 16 of the competition - says she has withdrawn from the contest because she was homesick, despite speculation she feared becoming a "joke" act.

She said in a statement: "I have decided to withdraw from the competition because I knew I would miss my family so much. I wish all the finalists the best of luck and look forward to watching them every week.

"'The X Factor' has been a fantastic experience and very challenging for me at times. I was very grateful to Louis for offering me a place in the final, however."

Goldie's mentor, Louis Walsh, is disappointed his act has pulled out but is pleased with the replacement he has chosen.

He said: "It was such a shame Goldie had to pull out of the competition, I thought she had great potential to entertain viewers in the live shows.

"But it has given someone else an amazing opportunity and although it was a hard decision of who to replace her with, I am pleased with my choice."